It is possible to check if you have claimed all your CRA checks online since February 2020. Simply go to the “Uncashed Checks” section in your online file on their website.
For example, if you changed your address before receiving the check or if you lost one, you can ask the CRA to send it to you again. It is also possible to register for direct deposit to receive future amounts by following the following instructions.
People who do not have access to a computer or My Account can call the general inquiries line at 1-800-959-7383 to find out if they have uncashed checks.
These checks represent payments that the Agency makes each year in the form of reimbursements, benefits and credits. Since checks issued by the government never expire or become stale, the Agency cannot cancel an original check and issue a new one without the taxpayer requesting it.
To receive a replacement check, an individual must complete form PWGSC 535 – Undertaking and Guarantee. This form includes payment information, the taxpayer’s name, address and signature, and the name, address and signature of a witness. This form can be obtained through My Account in the “Uncashed Checks” section or by calling the general inquiries line.
-Millions of unclaimed checks
As of May 2019, the CRA estimates that approximately five million Canadians had still not cashed nearly 7.6 million checks. Some of these sums date from 1998, indicates Charles Drouin, who is responsible for media relations at the Agency.
Since the addition of the “Uncashed Checks” section online, more than three million checks worth more than $1.2 billion have been claimed by Canadians
However, the number of dormant checks continues to increase. As of September 2024, the Agency had approximately 9.5 million uncashed checks.
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